Plastic is one of the most durable eyewear materials. Whether you wear corrective eyewear or just want stylish sun protection, plastic sunglasses tend to be more affordable, lightweight and durable than metal. Many types of plastic frames are also hypoallergenic, whereas metal blends containing nickel may cause an allergic reaction in sensitive wearers. Plastic frames are also compatible with most prescription lenses, including high RX lenses.
Affordable Frames and Lenses
Plastic glasses tend to be affordably priced for daily wear depending on the type of frames and lenses. Different varieties of plastic have unique properties. The most common materials for plastic frame sunglasses are cellulose acetate, propionate, epoxy resin, nylon, and similar substances. Prescription or non-prescription lenses may be made of CR39 plastic, polycarbonate or polyurethane. The most affordable eyewear pairs acetate or nylon frames with CR39 lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are more common in impact-resistant, shatterproof safety or sports eyewear. Polyurethane lenses combine lightweight clarity with impact resistance at a higher price point. Select plastic frames and lenses made of materials that provide the right combination of comfort and eye protection.
Versatile Colors and Shapes
Plastic frames are available in more styles than most other materials. The frame material makes it easier to create eye-catching colours and patterns. Start by selecting a pair of frames that are suitable for your lifestyle. If you are looking for fashion-forward sun protection, you may be satisfied with casual lifestyle sunglasses made out of plastic. Athletes may prefer sports sunglasses with impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses. Next, select prescription or non-prescription lenses. In addition to entering diopters and cylinder power, you can also create custom plastic sunglasses lenses with standard, gradient, polarized or mirrored tints. Most frames offer the option of a wide selection of standard and gradient tints such as grey, brown, green, blue, yellow, red and purple. Polarized tint options are often a choice of grey, green or brown shades. The availability of mirror tints depends on the frame style.
Plastic Sunglasses FAQs
Why choose plastic frames over metal frames?
Plastic frames are thicker and maybe more sturdy than metal frames. Whereas some metals pose allergy risks, plastics such as epoxy resin, nylon, propionate and polyamide are hypoallergenic. Frames made out of plastic are available in colours and designs that go beyond the minimalist look of most metal frames.
What plastic sunglasses frame shapes are available?
A variety of frames with rectangular lenses are available for men and women. Cat-eye frames are also an option, as this style has long been a fashionable choice for women. Some plastic frames feature stylistic details such patterns on the front or color fades and metal accents at the temples.
Do plastic frames provide a comfortable fit?
Plastic frames are made out of some of the most lightweight materials. Sunglasses often have built-in nose pads made of the same material as the rest of the frame. Frames made of plastic are not adjustable, making it important to factor in the frame size and dimensions when selecting eyewear.
Are plastic frames suitable for high RX prescription lenses?
Plastic prescription sunglasses are more likely to be compatible with high-powered prescriptions and thicker lenses than metal frames. Check the base curve and whether frames are rated for high RX lenses when selecting new eyewear. Keep in mind that distortion may result if high-powered lenses are put in wraparound frames.
What lens tints are available for plastic sunglasses?
A variety of tinted lenses can be paired with plastic eyewear. Standard and gradient tinting may be available in shades such as gray, brown, yellow, blue, green, red and purple. Polarized gray, green or brown lenses may also be options. You can choose tints for prescription or non-prescription sunglasses lenses.
